master-cooks | How To Make The Most Of Cookie Dough Mix Ins According To A Pro

To elevate your cookie dough game, consider the advice of a professional baker who emphasizes creativity and balance. Start by selecting high-quality base ingredients to ensure a perfect canvas for your mix-ins. When incorporating extras, aim for a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. For instance, use a combination of sweet and salty elements, like chocolate chips paired with pretzel pieces or toffee bits. This contrast can enhance the overall taste experience. Experiment with different types of chocolate, such as dark, milk, or white, to find your preferred richness and sweetness level. Nuts can add a satisfying crunch and depth; try using toasted almonds, pecans, or walnuts. Dried fruits like cranberries or cherries provide a chewy texture and a sweet-tart surprise. For a gourmet twist, consider adding spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg, or even a touch of espresso powder to intensify the chocolate flavor. Mind the quantity of mix-ins to prevent overwhelming the dough and affecting the cookie's structure. A general rule is to use about one to two cups of mix-ins per batch, adjusting based on your preference. By thoughtfully selecting and balancing your mix-ins, you can create uniquely delicious cookies that stand out.

Don't forget about the extracts

While some of these add-ins may be straightforward, others might not be as apparent. "Don’t overlook the essential flavor profile of your cookie by using a high-quality extract," Tosi advised. When it comes to selecting extracts, it largely depends on the dough, but you can rarely go wrong with a classic like vanilla. "Vanilla enhances the foundation of nearly every traditional baking flavor – Vanilla! Chocolate! Chocolate Chip! Peanut Butter! and more," Tosi explained. Although it can be pricey, authentic vanilla extract is worth the investment. It offers richer floral and sweet notes compared to imitation vanilla. From there, you can explore a variety of other extracts that are available. "Surprising options like Orange, Lemon, Raspberry, and Yellow Cake can really elevate your cookies," she noted.

For some inspiration, take a look at the recipe for the limited-edition Candy Cane Pretzel Bark Cookie created by Tosi and McCormick. These cookies feature a sprinkle of red sanding sugar and mini pretzels for a wonderfully crunchy texture, along with McCormick Pure Vanilla Extract and Peppermint Extract for a balanced flavor. The recipe is available online, and the cookies will be sold throughout December. Some select Milk Bar locations will even offer free samples on National Cookie Day. So, whatever you decide to incorporate into your cookies, make it uniquely yours. (And if you’re submitting your recipe to the McCormick Cookie Quest contest, good luck!)

How To Make The Most Of Cookie Dough Mix-Ins According To A Pro

Don't forget about the extracts

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